What is Vitamin D?

Findings also show that taking supplements of Vitamin D can help prevent colds an flu.*

What are the benefits of Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is important for normal growth and development of bones and teeth as well as improved resistance to certain diseases. If your body doesn’t get enough vitamin D, you are at risk of developing bone abnormalities such as osteomalacia (soft bones) or osteoporosis (fragile bones).

Where do I get vitamin D from?

You will get most of your vitamin D from sunlight on your skin, as well as a small amount from your diet.

Care must be taken when exposing your skin to the sun without sun protection. Remember to cover up or protect your skin before the time it takes you to start turning red or burn. Stay covered up for most of the time you spend outside and use sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15.

What foods contain vitamin D?

Who is at risk of Vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency is caused when you don’t get enough vitamin D in your diet or lifestyle and you may be at risk of having softer or more fragile bones.

The following groups are more at risk of vitamin D deficiency and may need to take vitamin D supplements:

• All pregnant and breastfeeding women
• All babies and young children from six months to five years old
• People aged 65 or over
• People who aren’t exposed to much sun e.g. those who cover their skin or those that are housebound or confined indoors for long periods (night shift workers)

Getting advice

Talk to your local pharmacist or GP if you’re concerned about the level of vitamin D you get from sunlight and your diet.